Content Summary

Craving something a little more special than your typical after-dinner cocktail? The espresso martini—it’s the perfect combination of coffee, alcohol, and deliciousness.

Making this drink at home is easier than you might think—all you need are three simple ingredients and a few tools. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to making your espresso martini.

Making An Espresso Martini

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you make your espresso martini, you must have all the necessary supplies at hand.

  • A shaker (or if you don’t have one handy, two glasses that fit together snugly work)
  • 1 part vodka + white rum (about 40ml or 1.35 oz) - put in the freezer 30 mins. before use
  • 1 part of coffee liqueur (like Kahlua or Tia Maria) or replace it by (10g or 2.25 tsp) sugar syrup or simple syrup
  • 1 part freshly brewed espresso (about 40ml or 1.35 oz)
  • ice cubes

Got everything? Now let’s move on to the next step.

Step 2: Shake It Up

It’s time to get shaking!

  1. Fill your shaker with a few ice cubes and add all 3 ingredients (vodka, coffee liqueur or simple syrup, and espresso).
  2. Put the lid on tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds or until everything is mixed nicely.

Step 3: Serve With Style

Once your mixture is blended nicely, it's time to serve up your masterpiece!

  1. Use a strainer or sieve to pour out the contents into an ice-filled or chilled martini glass.
  2. To give it an extra sparkle of sophistication, garnish each glass with three coffee beans arranged in a triangle pattern on top of the foam.
  3. And voila—your very own homemade espresso martinis are ready for consumption!

Espresso Martini FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to make an espresso martini.

What is the best coffee to use for espresso martini?

It's important to use freshly brewed espresso when making an espresso martini. The best coffee beans to use are Arabica, or Anaerobic, or Robusta beans that have been freshly roasted and ground. Avoid using pre-ground coffee beans as the flavor won't be as intense or fresh.

Should espresso be cold for espresso martini?

No, the espresso doesn't need to be cold for an espresso martini. Freshly brewed espresso is preferred to ensure the highest quality of taste. The other ingredients (vodka and coffee liqueur) should be cold, however, as this will help to achieve the desired texture and flavor of the drink.

How do you make espresso martini fluffy?

To make your espresso martini fluffy, shake the liquid ingredients vigorously for about 30 seconds. This will help to incorporate air into the mixture and create a nice foamy texture. You can also use heavy cream in the recipe to add extra creaminess and fluffiness to the martini.

Can you use regular coffee for espresso martini?

Regular coffee won't give you the same flavor as espresso when making an espresso martini. Espresso is stronger and more intense in flavor, so using regular coffee may result in a weaker-tasting martini.

How strong is an espresso martini?

An espresso martini is typically a strong alcoholic drink, as it contains two parts vodka and one part coffee liqueur. The exact strength can vary depending on how much alcohol is used in the recipe. 

What does 3 beans in espresso martini mean?

When making an espresso martini, you often see the three coffee beans (or sometimes four) arranged in a triangle pattern on top of the foam. This is a style choice and the number of beans used signifies how strong or intense the drink is.

Usually, three beans are used for a classic espresso martini and four beans are used for a stronger version. Furthermore, it symbolizes health, wealth, and joy.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you want an extra kick, add a float of cold espresso on top of each drink before serving.
  • You can use any type of espresso—espresso shots from your espresso machine or a moka pot or an aeropress work great!
  • Absolut vodka works best. However, your regular vodka will work just fine. If you want to get fancy then consider using something like vanilla or chocolate vodka. We recommend Kahlua or Tia Maria for the coffee liqueur, but any brand will do.
  • For those who prefer their drinks sweet, add one teaspoon of sugar syrup or simple syrup before shaking; otherwise, skip this step.
  • Garnish with some coffee beans, or chocolate sauce drizzles, or chocolate shavings before serving. Alternatively, you can garnish with 3 olives or a twist of orange peel!
How to Make an ESPRESSO MARTINI! (2x World Champion's Ultimate Recipe) | DAN FELLOWS coffee + cocktails

An espresso martini is an impressive way to impress guests at your next dinner party or gathering—and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Need an espresso machine? Check out our top picks for the best espresso machines under 300 USD.

Best Espresso Machine Under 300: Brew Espresso Like A Pro
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned barista, read on to find out everything you need to know about choosing the best espresso machine under 300 US$!

Grab your ingredients and start mixing; soon enough you'll be sipping on delicious homemade cocktails like an expert mixologist! Happy mixing!

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